The Midtown Educational Foundation recently recognized public relations and advertising faculty in DePaul's College of Communication as "Volunteers of the Year" for their work with the organization's apprenticeship program.

The Midtown Educational Foundation is a nonprofit focused on creating avenues of success for low-income youth in Chicago. The organization offers services and programs designed to nurture both personal and professional development, including six apprenticeship programs each focused on a different profession.

Three years ago, DePaul faculty and alumni helped to create an apprenticeship centered on the public relations and communications industry through a branch of the Midtown Educational Foundation, the Midtown Center for Boys. DePaul helped develop and implement lesson plans for high school minority youth taking part in the program. Participants also attend excursions and partake in hands-on projects related to the communications and public relations industry. This summer, the public relations apprenticeship program will expand into the Midtown Center for Girls. DePaul professional lecturer Jill Stewart will help pilot the program extension.

"There is a serious need for more minorities in the communications industry," says Ron Culp, professional director of the Public Relations and Advertising graduate program and the DePaul coordinator for the apprenticeship. "This program aims to increase awareness of career opportunities in public relations among high school students."

Members of the DePaul community received the award on Jan. 5 at the organization's annual volunteer appreciation party.​